The Role of a Lifetime!
The role of an advisor is complex and multi-faceted, requiring flexibility in the way you interact each day with chapter officers and members. Read on for the top four roles of an advisor - and why each is both challenging and rewarding!Guidance Guru
The first and most important role of an advisor is Advising.
When a project is not going well, the advisor should offer
encouragement and make suggestions, but not 'bail out' their
students or 'fix' things. Advisors must step back and let the students
make decisions. Sometimes, as hard as it is, advisors need to let their
students fail, then help them understand their failed project as
a learning experience.
Why It's Challenging: You will have students who want to do everything and take on every project.
Why It's Rewarding: You will see the growth in students as they internalize the four Hallmarks of Phi Theta Kappa - Scholarship, Leadership, Service and Fellowship.
Training Specialist
Teaching is an ongoing task for advisors. Students need to
know about Phi Theta Kappa programs, their chapter's bylaws,
available resources and college policies. Students also must learn
leadership skills such as goal setting, communication, team building
and motivating others. Time spent on leadership development and
Phi Theta Kappa programs training will lessen the amount of time
advisors spend later managing problems.
Why It's Challenging: Just as members become knowledgeable about Phi Theta Kappa programs, they graduate and you start over with a new group.
Why It's Rewarding: You will experience the excitement of observing students developing leadership skills, gaining confidence and acquiring knowledge.
Talent Scout
An active and successful chapter needs good members and
good officers; therefore, Recruiting is a key role of advisors. Since
two-year college students are usually on campus for only two years,
there is always going to be a turnover of members and officers.
Effective advisors are always on the lookout for potential active
members and officers, and they encourage current members to
spread the word of the opportunities available in Phi Theta Kappa.
Why It's Challenging: You are working with college students who already have busy lives with their classes, jobs and families.
Why It's Rewarding: Some of your members will be rewarded for their high academic achievements, leadership roles and service by receiving scholarships and/or recognition.
Motivating Mentor
Mentoring students is important to Phi Theta Kappa advisors.
Students will have questions about their education, careers and
scholarships. Advisors often encourage students to set challenging
personal and professional goals. Advisors can motivate their students
to achieve their highest potential and direct students to resources that
will help them reach their goals.
Why It's Challenging: You already have a full-time position - and it's not advising the Phi Theta Kappa chapter.
Why It's Rewarding: You will remain in contact with some students and celebrate their personal and professional successes. You'll be able to see a real difference in the lives of your students and know you played an integral role in their accomplishments!
